As healthcare organizations prepare for 2026, Experian Health has released its outlook on the revenue cycle management landscape, highlighting a pivotal year shaped by regulatory shifts, financial pressures, and the growing adoption of artificial intelligence. The company’s predictions point to a transformative period in which technology will be essential to addressing long-standing challenges in administrative efficiency, patient access, and financial sustainability. One of the key trends expected in 2026 is a move from broad AI awareness to focused implementation. As teams gain experience and build in-house expertise, use cases will begin to concentrate on specific, high-impact projects. While large-scale AI integration may still take a few years to fully mature, optimism is growing. According to Experian Health’s survey, 53% of respondents believe AI will be widely adopted across healthcare operations, though they emphasize the need for oversight. More than a third see AI as essential for achieving operational efficiency. A major regulatory milestone will take effect in January 2026 with the implementation of the Interoperability and Prior Authorization Final Rule. This rule is expected to modernize and streamline prior authorization processes for providers and payers, particularly Medicare Advantage organizations, Medicaid and CHIP Fee-for-Service programs, and Qualified Health Plans on federally facilitated exchanges. By reducing administrative friction, the rule could significantly cut processing times, improve care access, and free up clinician time for patient-facing work. Despite this progress, significant challenges remain—especially for rural healthcare providers. A recent report indicates that up to 700 rural hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes could close in the coming years. These facilities are under severe financial strain due to declining patient volumes, rising operational costs, workforce shortages, and the ongoing shift toward outpatient and telehealth services. Without intervention, many may be forced to reduce staffing, cut quality initiatives, limit services, or shut down entirely. To survive, rural providers will need to diversify revenue streams, expand telehealth offerings, adopt value-based care models, and form stronger partnerships with larger health systems. “2026 will be a defining year for healthcare, marked by regulatory change and the accelerated adoption of new technologies—similar in impact to the digital transformation seen during the pandemic,” said Jason Considine, President at Experian Health. “AI is already proving its value in reducing claim denials and easing administrative burdens, but its success depends on trust, transparency, and accountability. As providers face the financial and operational effects of new legislation, modernizing systems thoughtfully is more critical than ever to simplify healthcare for patients, providers, and payers alike.” Experian Health serves more than 60% of U.S. hospitals and over 7,500 medical practices, labs, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers, offering data-driven platforms that enhance decision-making, improve financial performance, and strengthen patient relationships. As a FTSE 100 company listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN), Experian employs 25,100 people across 32 countries, with corporate headquarters in Dublin, Ireland. For more information, visit www.experianhealth.com.